Activate ReadyAPI License
Important Notice for ReadyAPI Customers
Starting from ReadyAPI 3.62.0, VirtServer 3.29.0, and TestEngine 1.34.0, SmartBear Product Family has fully deprecated file-based licenses and transitioned to the ID-based SmartBear License Management (SLM) system. Any customers still using file-based licenses must complete their migration to SLM by September 30, 2025.
From October 1, 2025, existing and activated file-based licenses will continue to work for some time. However, SmartBear will no longer generate new file-based licenses or support activation and deactivation of file-based licenses in ReadyAPI, VirtServer, or TestEngine. All new and updated licenses are now issued in SLM only.
All technical support for file-based licenses has now ceased, and SmartBear no longer maintains the file-based licensing system. Any access or service issues will result in service disruptions that we will not be able to restore.
If you have not completed the process of migrating, contact your Account Manager or SmartBear representative today. Our teams are ready to assist with smooth transition strategies. For additional support, log a request with our SmartBear Support, who are standing by to help.
For further information and timelines, refer to the File-Based License End-of-Life Policy page.
You can have a license for the entire ReadyAPI product or its modules: Test, Performance, or Virtualization.
To use ReadyAPI or its modules, you must activate the license. You perform activation in the Install license dialog box. ReadyAPI opens this dialog the first time you launch the product after installation. You can also open it by selecting Help, then License Manager, and in the License Manager dialog, clicking Install License.
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License types
ReadyAPI uses SmartBear ID-based licenses.
SmartBear ID-based: A key-based license type introduced in ReadyAPI 3.8.1. This license type requires users to sign in with a SmartBear account (SmartBear ID). It replaces license files and provides a simpler way to activate and manage licenses.
For details about license management, see About ReadyAPI Licenses.
Activation options
Option | When to use |
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Login with SmartBear ID | Choose this option if you have a SmartBear account, that is, if you have a SmartBear ID-based license. You need to specify your account email and password. Using this option implies you have a ReadyAPI license assigned to you in the SmartBear Licensing Portal. |
Offline License | Choose this option if you work in a private network or on a computer without internet access. You generate a machine fingerprint in ReadyAPI, send it to your license administrator, and then apply the license data they provide through the SmartBear Licensing Portal. |
License from Floating License Server | Choose this option if you have a licensing server in your local network. That licensing server should be activated with a SmartBear ID On-prem floating license. |
I have no license | Select this option of you don't have a SmartBear account. ReadyAPI displays a dialog box in which you can start a trial or purchase a license. |